1. Hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer or firm because a conviction follows you for the rest of your life.

2. Hire a criminal defense attorney whose ability has been favorably rated by other local attorneys or by an independent organization.

3. Hire an attorney that frequently practices in the court where the case is pending.

4. Hire a criminal defense attorney that has a reputation for winning cases.

5. Hire a criminal defense lawyer that will give you an honest and fair analysis of your situation.

6. Ask about cost, and get a written contract.

7. Be comfortable with the criminal defense attorney you hire: trust your gut.

8. Hire a criminal lawyer that extensively practices criminal law and has experience in your type of case.

9. Tell the whole story during the consultation - it's protected by privilege and it's the only way to get an accurate analysis from the prospective attorney.

10. Take advantage of free legal consultations.

Polk County Sealing and Expunction Attorney Seal or Expunge your Criminal Record in Polk County Florida

Having an arrest, a criminal charge, or a conviction on your record can have many negative consequences. When you apply for a job or an apartment, you have to disclose your charge. It can prevent you from getting some jobs altogether.

If you were never convicted, it seems downright unfair to be penalized for an arrest. If you were convicted but you successfully completed your probation or served your time, it's understandable you'd like to start over with a clean slate.

Our Polk County Criminal Lawyer Can Explain the Process

Unfortunately, that's not always possible with our criminal justice system. There are some ways to remove a criminal charge from your record, though.

1. Have your case dismissed,

2. Take your case to trial and win,

3. Have the court Withhold the Adjudication of Guilt,

David Carmichael can explain which, if any of these options may be available for you, depending upon the crime and the outcome of your case. When you meet with us for a free consultation, we will fully explain the process and give you an honest assessment of whether we think you will have success.

Record sealing is often an option for young adults who made a mistake during their college years. Whenever possible, protect your child's reputation and his or her promising future from being harmed by an underage drinking conviction or misdemeanor drug possession charge. If your college student has been convicted of a crime while under the age of 21, we can help.

We will do everything possible to help you clear your criminal record through expungement or sealing your juvenile record. We look forward to helping you.

Selecting an attorney is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising, before you decide, ask a lawyer to send you free written information about their qualifications and experience. I encourage you to meet with at least three different attorney’s before making a decision about whom to retain for your case. Contact the The Florida Bar at www.floridabar.org and receive a list of attorneys in your area.